The Cubs also announced that catcher Anthony Recker, designated for assignment on Wednesday, was claimed off waivers by the Mets. Recker, acquired from the Athletics on Aug. 27 for Blake Lalli, went 3-for-18 in nine games with the Cubs, including a home run Sept. 9 against the Pirates.

Cardenas spent most of the 2012 season with Iowa, where he batted .300 in 65 games. He batted .183 in 45 games with the Cubs.

Socolovich, who was claimed off waivers from the Orioles on Aug. 23, posted a 4.50 ERA in six games with the Cubs. Berken, claimed off waivers from the Orioles on Sept. 7, was 0-3 with a 4.82 ERA in four starts with Chicago. Mateo had been on the 60-day disabled list with ulnar neuritis, and was activated and then outrighted to Iowa.